主权
zhǔ quánThe supreme authority of a state over its territory, people, and government, free from external control.
联合国宪章确认了每个国家的主权平等。
The UN Charter affirms the sovereign equality of all states.
In international law, sovereignty is a fundamental principle governing relations between states.
The right of a people to self-determination and governance without foreign interference.
殖民地人民争取主权的斗争从未停止。
The struggle for sovereignty by colonial peoples never ceased.
Often used in discussions of decolonization and national independence movements.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Distinguishing from similar concepts
主权 (sovereignty) refers to a state's supreme authority, while 自治 (autonomy) refers to self-governance within a larger political entity.
⚡Gold Rule
Core meaning
主权 always implies supreme authority and freedom from external control, whether in legal or political contexts.
📖Word Origin
From 主 (zhǔ, 'master/control') + 权 (quán, 'right/power'). The concept originates from Western political philosophy but was adopted into Chinese political discourse in the late 19th century during the Self-Strengthening Movement.
📝Usage Notes
In modern Chinese, 主权 is primarily used in formal political and legal contexts. It is a key concept in discussions of international relations, territorial disputes, and national security.